Experience the Marina through their Legacy Businesses!

drawing of a 50's style diner

1. Start your tour with brunch at Balboa Cafe, a local favorite serving up the classics. Enjoy salads, brunch entrées, sweet options, shareables, sides, and their “Famous Balboa Mary.”

overhead photo of a collection of cameras

2. Head north on Fillmore Street and west on Chestnut Street. Browse the many shops and make sure not to miss Fireside Camera, San Francisco's oldest independent camera store. This is the place to go for all your photographic needs, including an excellent selection of new and used equipment.

photo of someone serving wine behind a bar

3. California Wine Merchant is a wine shop, wine bar, and wine club specializing in small California producers. They carry old favorites as well as new, undiscovered gems that you won't find in a typical wine shop or bar. Sip on a glass and purchase a bottle to take home as a delightful souvenir.

photo of the exterior of a bookshop

4. Your full-service bookstore in the Marina, Books Inc., is the spot to go for books, toys, cards, and gifts. Take your time exploring the shelves, and perhaps find a hidden literary gem to accompany you on the rest of your journey.

Photo of the exterior of a deli

5. Refuel at one of three options (or wait to grab a bite at the next stop). Little Original Joe's offers a menu of hearty lunch options, from classic Italian dishes to American comfort food. Marina Supermarket crafts fresh homemade sandwiches and salads, providing a perfect option for a quick and delicious lunch on the go. Lucca Delicatessen, the "tastiest little deli in the world," serves up made-to-order sandwiches with the finest ingredients, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Food and a view of the bay at Greens Restaurant

6. Stroll to the Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture, connecting people with arts and culture on a historic waterfront campus. For an unforgettable lunch experience, Greens Restaurant produces ever-changing menus dedicated to the seasonal harvests of local farmers and organic gardens. With a panorama view of San Francico Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, the restaurant is a lively scene in a spacious warehouse where grand windows stretch floor-to-ceiling in the dining room.

photo of the interior of an art supply store

7. Check out FLAX Art & Design for an unbeatable range of materials to inspire your creativity, including art and craft supplies and terrific gifts for all the creatives in your life.

Storefront of SF Camerawork

8. Don't miss SF Camerawork, San Francisco's space for provactive photography. The gallery provokes discovery, experimentation, and exchange through exhibitions and experiences for all who value new ideas in photography.

photo of the exterior of a corner store

9. Head to Valentino Market for refreshments at “the best corner market in the West.” As you continue along Union Street, explore an array of shops, from boutiques to specialty stores, creating a delightful and leisurely shopping experience.

photo of the exterior of a restaurant with tables with blue tablecloths

10. Try one of two excellent restaurants for dinner: Brazen Head Restaurant & Public House, renowned for their intimate and cozy atmosphere, is a favorite among San Francisco natives and visitors alike for their outstanding food, drinks, and local flavors. Perry's serves classic American food and is known for their warm, personable service and bustling bar. The blend of comfort food with a touch of sophistication makes it a popular choice for those seeking a memorable dining experience.

photo of the interior of a busy bar

11. Conclude your day at The Blue Light, a popular spot for drinks and socializing. They have live music every Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., and live DJs all weekend long. Enjoy a welcoming and warm atmosphere and a variety of beverages, and perhaps share stories from your day of exploration.

Other Legacy Businesses in the Marina, Fort Mason, and Union St.:

Other Legacy Businesses in the Marina, Fort Mason, and Union St.:

Legacy Business Program

The Legacy Business Program is for businesses 30+ years old that add to San Francisco's culture. Legacy Businesses can get marketing help, business support, and grants. It is the first program of its kind in the United States.

About

Some of the wording on this page was drafted using ChatGPT.

Shop Dine SF is an initiative of the Office of Small Business, and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development.

Its aim is to bring attention to the local businesses and neighborhood corridors. Spending money at local small businesses helps merchants and creates jobs.

Shop local. Even a small increase can have a big impact.

Questions? Email shopdinesf@sfgov.org